International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), an Abu Dhabi-based renewable energy agency, has partnered with World Meteorological Organization to release the '2024 Year in Review' report. The WMO–IRENA report labels 2024 as the warmest year on record at 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. The report also shows a 4% increase in global energy demand compared to 1991-2020 averages during that period. Global renewable energy capacity exceeded 4.4 TW, intensifying interactions between climate conditions and power systems. Regional analysis indicates Southern Africa's wind capacity factors rose +8 to +16%, while solar increased +2 to +6%. The region's hydropower production was below average for the third consecutive year. South Asia's wind and solar output declined, with +16% demand anomalies in October from cooling. East Africa has benefited from above-average rainfall supporting hydropower, while parts of South America faced reduced output. The review also finds seasonal climate forecasts can anticipate energy anomalies months ahead, supporting climate-informed energy planning. Recently, IRENA and Climate Policy Initiative reported concentrated solar and wind investments in 2024, slower growth, and widening regional gaps.

2026-01-22-IRENA2-gks